The 10 Best Semi-Automatic Shotguns

If you are looking to fine-tune your hunting game, make a splash at a clay disc competition, or to up the protection of your home, a shotgun is likely the weapon of choice. When you make it a semiautomatic shotgun, all of the above circumstances become a hundred times sweeter. Whether you are new to the gun world or are an experienced marksman, chances are a semi-auto shotgun will further benefit your game of choice. Not only is there a sort of man-born satisfaction by ripping through a bunch of rounds in a few mere seconds; the market for semiautomatic shotguns has broadened and can cater to anyone’s needs.

If you’re a gun novice and aren’t too sure of the difference between your standard pump action shotgun and a semi-auto, we will break it down for you quickly. Your standard shotgun involves pumping the fore-end back into itself in order to get rid of an empty cartridge and reload a new round into the chamber. This action must be done after each round fired. With a semi-automatic shotgun, the same action is done automatically through a recoil-operated system or a gas system – this means repetitive rounds can be fired one after another.

So why add a semi-auto shotgun to your collection? They are very easy to handle, as once the weapon is charged, you are golden. No need to pump the gun and relocate after each fire; nothing but a steady stream of bullets while your eye stays on the target. Although semiautomatic shotguns have been known to jam up in the past, technology has evolved and the chances of a jam are less likely these days. And if you still aren’t sure about it – well, they’re just a complete thrill to use and will be a guaranteed high for an adrenaline junky.

So if you’re on the hunt for a new toy, check out these ten semiautomatic shotguns that are sure to please.

Benelli M2 Tactical Semiautomatic Shotgun

A rugged, matte black exterior and a powerfully nimble shot, Benelli’s M2 tactical semiautomatic is brought to you by a company who knows their guns. Offering both a 12 gauge and 20 gauge option, the recoil spring guarantees a lightning-quick reload time regardless of the load type. The Inertia Driven bold mechanism system allows the M2 to take on just about any 12 gauge cartridge, including the heavier 3-inch magnums. This is the gun to get for home defense, multi-gun competitions, and security needs.

Built to the exact specifications of world-renowned speed shooter and shotgun competitor of Jerry Miculek, the Mossberg 930 tactical semiautomatic shotgun is your number one choice to better the competition. The dual gas system lessens the recoil impact found in most semiautomatic shotguns, while its high capacity shoots nine rounds at an amazing speed. A barrel clamp maximizes stability while the front fiber optic sight keeps your eyes on the prize.

Browning A5 Semiautomatic Hunting Shotgun

The gun that started it all: Browning’s A5 semiautomatic hunting shotgun is the weapon of choice for those looking to make an investment in the brand that started the semiautomatic niche. If you close your eyes and picture a hunter’s gun, the A5’s humpback profile with a glossy walnut stock and deep blued barrel and receiver likely comes to mind. Being on the lighter side, the A5’s lightweight butt pad and muzzle will keep you hunting all day tirelessly. Founder of the recoil-operation system, Browning’s A5 recoil promises reliable and fast cycling while minimizing kickback.

Winchester Speed X4 Semiautomatic Shotgun

Winchester Speed X4 semiautomatic shotguns are built for excellent comfort, accuracy, and speed. Succeeding its predecessor, the Super X3 Black Shadow, the SX4 has increased performance and ergonomics that make its daddy proud. Coated with a non-glare matte black finish, you will be able to keep your cover while on the hunt and still look good. A redesigned comfortable grip is found at the butt pad and forearm panels for a secured hold when you are without gloves. A back-bored technology promises optimum shot patterns that are evenly distributed. A quadra-vent port releases excess gases from the recoil system for an easier clean. With an inflex technology recoil pad, the minor kickback is felt down and away from the face to reduce flinch when you’re on the hunt.

Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 Semiautomatic Shotgun

If you are looking to take down some birds of flight, then the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 semiautomatic shotgun is the one to reach for. A ComforTech three stock and recoil pad reduces felt recoil impact by nearly 50% compared to other similar shotguns and reduces muzzle climb by up to 15% without extra weight. A roomy trigger guard is excellent for gloved hands during the cold winter months, while still offering the same sense of control you would get during the summer. A reliable Inertia Driven system promises a smooth and jam-free delivery of each round. Coming in a variety of six different finishes fit for hunting and competition, you have options to choose from.

Beretta TX4 Storm Semiautomatic Shotgun

No stranger to law enforcement, the TX4 Storm semiautomatic shotgun is your ideal choice for home defense or hobby shooting. A gas-operated mechanism system and a 5 plus 1 capacity delivers seamless rounds each and every time. A shorter, maneuverable barrel and a super lightweight body make it a perfect shotgun to stow away at home. A super strong feeding system will digest any type of load you’ll give it, from full-power magnums to small rounds, and can quickly adjust between load types without taking a break. Ghost-ring sights are created for quick and reliable target acquisition, and the small body length makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. What sets the TX4 Storm apart from other semiautomatic shotguns is a self-cleaning mechanism and an incredibly simple disassembly.

Stoeger Model 3500 Semiautomatic Shotgun

For a reliable semiautomatic shotgun at a bargain of a price, Stoeger’s Model 3500 semi-auto shotgun fits the bill quite nicely. Featuring red bar fiber-optic sight for quick and painless target acquisition, this shotgun works wonders in low-light situations found at dusk and dawn. Stoeger’s famous Inertia Driven operating system guarantees a high-quality performance and a problem-free shoot. A stock integrated recoil reducer lessens the impact of kickback, therefore keeping your attention focused on the target. This fantastically priced shotgun is featured in Realtree MAX 5 camouflage or a matte black finish based on preference and need.

Benelli Performance Shop SuperSport Semiautomatic Shotgun

A great option for competition or hobby shooting, the Benelli Performance Shop SuperSport shotgun is ideally designed for sporting clays, trap and skeet. To increase pattern density, Benelli cryogenically treats their barrels and choke tubes. A window system lets you easily keep count of the number of shells in the magazine tube. An ergonomic trigger guard and safety keeps things comfortable during long days at the sporting clays course. The featured ComforTech recoil reduction system beats the competition hands-down with an incredibly minimal kickback. A unique carbon fiber finish sets you apart from the others at the sporting club.

Beretta A300 Outlander Semiautomatic Shotgun

For a quick and painlessly easy assemble and disassemble as it features only four major components, Beretta’s A300 Outlander semiautomatic shotgun is the high-performance shotgun you need. The A300 Outlander is any hunter’s dream, as it’s adjustable shim system and the synthetic stock will man up to withstand dusty, muddy, rainy and snowy conditions. The gas valve mechanism offers a smooth, jam-free operation each time you use it. The ergonomic cross bolt safety is completely reversible for left-handed shooters and offers a tight grip that won’t fail you when prey is in sight. A fitted rubber recoil pad absorbs recoil and maintains comfort for the shooter.

Legacy Sports Escort Supreme Magnum Semiautomatic Shotgun

Known to deliver magnum rounds in a seamless and easy fashion, the Legacy Sports Escort Supreme gives you the heavy-duty shotgun you need without the bulk or weight. A traditional Turkish walnut stock and black barrel give it the old school shotgun look, while the SMART valve self-regulating gas piston makes it anything but outdated by seamlessly reloading in the blink of an eye. This model is also available in true left-handed styles to fit any need.